This cilantro lime chicken is zesty and full of flavor! Marinated in fresh lime juice and cilantro, it’s just what you need for a tasty meal.
Cooking this chicken is so easy; just grill or bake it up! I love serving it with rice or in tacos. So good, you’ll want to make it every week! 🌿🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you prefer chicken breasts, you can certainly use them! Just be careful not to overcook, as they can dry out faster.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor that defines this dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute. Just note, it will change the flavor slightly.
Limes: Fresh lime juice is crucial for brightness. If limes aren’t available, lemons can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be tangier.
Spices: Ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder create a warm, smoky flavor. You can replace smoked paprika with regular paprika or even chipotle powder for more heat.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the chicken cook without sticking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil is a good alternative.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Extra Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into your chicken. With this recipe, it’s all about the lime and spice blend. Here’s how to do it well:
- Mix lime juice, zest, garlic, cilantro, and spices in a bowl. The acid in the lime juice helps tenderize the meat.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade. It’s best to let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; 2-4 hours gives an even better flavor!
- Before grilling, let any excess marinade drip off to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
This method not only flavors the chicken well but also helps keep it moist while cooking! Enjoy the delicious results!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Lime wedges and additional cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (longer for more flavor, up to 4 hours). The grilling will take around 15 minutes, making the total time about 1 hour if you include marination. Easy and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This is where all the yummy flavors come from!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and make sure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb those great flavors, but if you have time, letting it sit for up to 4 hours will make it even tastier!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat—around 375-400°F is perfect. After marinating, remove the chicken thighs from the bowl, letting any excess marinade drip off (don’t forget, toss what’s left behind!). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and you see nice grill marks.
4. Serve it Up:
Once grilled, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Before serving, sprinkle with any leftover chopped cilantro and add lime wedges for extra zing. Enjoy your delicious Cilantro Lime Chicken warm!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just keep in mind that breasts can cook faster, so check for doneness around the 5-minute mark on each side to prevent drying out.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor, but for best results, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours. If marinating overnight, be aware that the citrus may start to “cook” the chicken, leading to a firmer texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for a substitute for olive oil, you can use avocado oil or canola oil, as they both have high smoke points and will work well for grilling. Coconut oil can be used for a unique flavor, but be cautious of its lower smoke point.
How Should I Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist. Enjoy it on salads, in tacos, or with your favorite sides!
